Join us each month as we interview a Readers' Advisor at WPL so you can get to know the team a little better! This month we are featuring Adult Services Associate, Tara! Continue reading below to learn a little more about Tara, her favorite genres, and the resources she uses to decide what to read next.
How long have you worked in libraries?
5 months and I love it. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to become part of WPL.
What is your favorite genre, series, or book?
I lean toward historical fiction, suspense, gothic and dark academia. I absolutely loved Babel by R.F. Kuang - it is a great mix of everything I love.
Have you ever read a book in one sitting? If so, what was the book?
The Cloisters by Katy Hays. I couldn’t put it down! I have always loved a dark academic location and throwing in a mystery -- I was hooked.
Tell us about a book you can’t stop raving about.
The Postcard by Anne Berest - it is a fabulous historical fiction based on the author's actual family events.
What book surprised you?
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides. It is a great read if you like to figure out the ending. And I did NOT see that coming.
What tips do you have for someone who might be in a reading slump or trying to get back into reading?
At the WPL new book stacks and the new books & movies section on the website are an easy place to browse and see what is new. Also, the Lucky Day books give you a chance at popular books with high demand. I tend to gravitate to a cover that catches my eye.
One of the ways patrons can get reading recommendations is though filling out our Book Match Form. Do you have any tips that patrons should follow when they fill out the form?
Be honest about what books you like reading and which you did not like. There is zero judgement from our staff and the more information we have the better our recommendations will be.
What resources do you personally utilize when looking for the next book you want to read?
I like to see what the other staff members are reading and love NoveList for searching for read-a-likes based on books I enjoyed.